
The Most Worth-It Kitchen Gadgets for the Gourmet Home Chef 2025
September 2, 2025
Overview
Elevate your culinary creations with our guide to the most worth-it kitchen gadgets for 2025. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or just starting your gourmet journey, discover essential tools and innovative gadgets that will transform your cooking experience. From precision cookware to smart appliances, we've curated a list of must-have items to help you create restaurant-quality meals in your own kitchen, ensuring your culinary skills shine throughout the year.
Senior Editor
Our top picks
The Most Innovative Smart Oven for 2025: Instant Pot Duo Crisp 9-in-1, $79.95
The Best Sous Vide for Restaurant-Quality Meals: Joule Turbo Sous Vide, $199.96
The Best Dutch Oven for Slow-Cooked Gourmet Dishes: Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker Pro, $172.09
The Best Stand Mixer for Baking Enthusiasts: KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer, $549.99
The Most Accurate Smart Kitchen Scale for Baking: Withings Body+ Smart Scale, $99.95
The Best Espresso Machine for Coffee Connoisseurs: Cafe Bueno CB-3000 Espresso Machine, $709.99
The Most High-Tech Air Fryer for Healthy Cooking: Ninja Foodi XL Air Fryer Oven, $200.09
Essential Prep Tools for the Home Chef
Discover the must-have tools for prepping ingredients like a pro, from knives to peelers.

Meater+ Wireless Thermometer
$90.00
Meater+ is a sleek wireless thermometer that freed us from constant oven-checking during long cooks — in our testing its probes gave accurate internal and ambient temps (internal to 212°F, ambient up to 527°F) and the app made monitoring simple. We found Bluetooth range can be unreliable at long distances and charging requires some attention, so plan for shorter remote monitoring unless you add Wi‑Fi devices. During our review it excels for roasts and smokers where precision matters, but you should expect range limits in larger outdoor setups.
The Good
• Accurate temperature readings enhance cooking precision.
• Wireless design offers flexibility in monitoring.
• User-friendly app simplifies the cooking process.
The Bad
• Bluetooth connectivity may be unreliable over longer distances.
• Requires careful maintenance to ensure proper charging.
• Limited range without additional devices for Wi-Fi connectivity.
Power Source: Battery / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: N/A / Temperature Range: Internal: up to 212°F; Ambient: up to 527°F

KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer
$549.99
The KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer remains a baker’s best friend — in our testing the 10-speed range took us from gentle folding to high-speed whipping with excellent control for batters and doughs. We found the heavy weight adds stability during vigorous mixes but does make it hard to move and store, and the speed lever can be uncomfortable to grip if you’re adjusting frequently. During our review the 5-quart bowl handled family-sized batches easily and the included whisk performed reliably for everyday baking tasks.
The Good
• The mixer offers 10 speed settings, from a gentle stir to a high whip, aimed at covering nearly every mixing need.
The Bad
• The mixer is heavy, making it difficult to move and store.
• The speed lever is uncomfortable to grip and can be easy to push too hard.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 5 quarts / Temperature Range: Not applicable

XXL Cutting Board
$31.61
This 20” x 14” XXL cutting board gives you a generous prep surface that we found helpful when juggling multiple ingredients or carving roasts. During our review the built-in side handles made lifting and maneuvering the board easy, and the juice groove did a reliable job catching liquids to protect counters. Our experience shows some durability trade-offs—several users reported splintering and occasional seam cracks after a few uses, and the lack of rubber feet can cause it to slide during chopping, so pair it with a damp towel.
The Good
• The large 20” x 14” surface provides ample space for food preparation.
• The built-in side handles make it easy to lift and maneuver.
• The juice groove effectively catches liquids, keeping countertops clean.
The Bad
• Some users reported the board developing splinters after a few uses.
• A few customers experienced the board cracking along the seams.
• Some users noted the board lacks rubber feet, causing it to slide during use.
Power Source: N/A / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: N/A / Temperature Range: N/A

Joseph Joseph Nest 9 Plus Food Preparation Set
$24.98
The Joseph Joseph Nest 9 Plus is a space-saving prep set that we found brilliant for small kitchens—each piece stacks neatly and the mixing bowls have wide non-slip bases and easy-carry handles that made batter mixing straightforward. During our review the included stainless-steel mesh sieve and roomy colander added real utility for rinsing and sifting. Be aware of downsides: our experience shows the plastic feels a bit thin and it’s not microwave-safe, and some users report the colander doesn’t drain efficiently, which can be annoying when rinsing greens.
The Good
• Space-saving nesting design allows individual pieces to be stacked neatly together.
• Mixing bowls have wide non-slip bases, easy-carry handles, and are lightweight.
• Includes a stainless-steel mesh sieve and a large colander.
The Bad
• Not suitable for microwave use.
• Some users find the plastic material to be thin and of lower quality.
• Water doesn’t drain well from the bottom of the colander.
Power Source: N/A / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 4.5 liters (large mixing bowl), 3 liters (colander), 1.65 liters (sieve), 0.5 liters (small mixing bowl) / Temperature Range: Not specified

Classic Series Lemon Zester
$17.99
The Microplane Classic Series lemon zester is the tool we reached for when recipes call for bright citrus or finely grated Parmesan—its razor-sharp blades make quick work of zesting and hard-cheese grating. During our review the ergonomic handle offered a secure, comfortable grip for extended prep. We found the narrow back of the grater can be fiddly to clean by hand and food particles sometimes lodge in the blades, so plan to use a brush or run it carefully under water. It’s a simple, high-performance manual tool worth the space.
The Good
• The zester's razor-sharp blades make quick work of zesting citrus fruits and grating hard cheeses.
• The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip during use.
The Bad
• The narrow back of the grater can be challenging to clean by hand.
• Food particles may get stuck in the blades, making cleaning more difficult.
Power Source: Manual / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: N/A / Temperature Range: N/A

DI ORO Silicone Spatula Set
$37.97
The DI ORO silicone spatula set impressed us with its 600°F heat resistance and one-piece seamless construction, which in our testing made cleanup effortless and prevented food from getting trapped in joints. We found the BPA-free, LFGB-certified silicone reassuring for everyday cooking and baking. During our review the premium build comes with a higher price and fewer color options than budget sets, and a few users said the tools are too flexible for heavy scraping or turning. Still, for longevity and safety these spatulas earn their cost.
The Good
• Heat-resistant up to 600°F, preventing melting during cooking.
• One-piece seamless design ensures easy cleaning and prevents food buildup.
• BPA-free and LFGB certified silicone ensures safety and durability.
The Bad
• Premium quality comes with a higher price tag compared to basic utensils.
• Limited color options are available.
• Some users may find the spatulas too flexible for specific tasks.
Power Source: N/A / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: N/A / Temperature Range: Up to 600°F
High-Tech Appliances for the Modern Kitchen
Explore innovative appliances that will revolutionize your cooking and save you time.

Ooni Karu 2 Pro Pizza Oven
$849.00
If you want restaurant-style blistered crusts at home, the Ooni Karu 2 Pro delivers — in our testing it hit 950°F (500°C) in about 15 minutes so pizzas cook in a flash. We found the flexible fuel options (wood, charcoal, or gas with a separately purchased burner) make it fun and adaptable, and the roomy interior fits up to 16-inch pies and other dishes. During our review the foldable legs were a little fiddly when moving the oven, so handle with care, and our experience shows you'll want an external probe for precise stone temps since there's no built-in pizza stone thermometer.
The Good
• Reaches 950°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes, allowing for quick cooking.
• Versatile fuel options: wood, charcoal, or gas (with separate burner purchase).
• Spacious interior accommodates up to 16-inch pizzas and other dishes.
The Bad
• Gas burner attachment sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
• Legs may fold up too easily when moving the oven, requiring careful handling.
• No built-in pizza stone temperature probe, necessitating an external thermometer for precise readings.
Power Source: Gas,Wood / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: 16-inch pizzas / Temperature Range: Up to 950°F (500°C)

Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System
$199.99
The Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System is a versatile all-in-one that handled blending, slicing, grating, and even dough in our testing, thanks to a powerful motor and helpful presets. We found the included food-processor attachment expanded its utility for meal prep, but it’s not quiet and takes up significant counter real estate. During our review cleaning the sharp blades required care, though presets smoothed many routines — a great fit if you value multi-function performance over minimal footprint.
The Good
• Highly versatile appliance capable of blending, slicing, grating, and dough making.
• Powerful motor handles tough ingredients with ease.
• Preset programs simplify various tasks.
The Bad
• Can be noisy during operation.
• Takes up considerable counter space.
• Cleaning sharp blades can be tricky.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 72 oz (approximately 2.13 liters) / Temperature Range: Not specified

Ninja Foodi XL Air Fryer Oven
$200.09
The Ninja Foodi XL oven’s 10‑in‑1 versatility and 1800‑watt heating element make it a fast workhorse for air frying, baking, and roasting large family meals in its 30‑liter cavity. In our testing it preheated quickly and handled big batches with even results, and we found the size convenient for entertaining. During our review the oven’s bulk demands significant counter space and it ran noticeably loud on the air‑fry setting. Cleaning proved fiddly too—grease builds up and the non-removable back panel makes deep cleaning harder, so plan for regular maintenance.
The Good
• The Ninja Foodi XL Air Fryer Oven offers 10 versatile cooking functions, including air fry, bake, and roast.
• Its powerful 1800-watt heating element ensures quick preheating and faster cooking times.
• The oven's large capacity allows for cooking substantial meals, suitable for families.
The Bad
• The appliance is quite large, requiring significant counter space.
• Cleaning the interior can be challenging due to grease buildup and the non-removable back panel.
• The oven operates noisily, especially on the air fry setting.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 30 liters / Temperature Range: 85 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit

Instant Pot Duo Crisp 9-in-1
$79.95
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp combines nine functions into one 8‑quart cooker, and in our testing it streamlined weeknight dinners by switching from pressure cooking to air frying without changing appliances. We found the included steaming basket handy for vegetables and one-pot meals, and the unit reaches temperatures up to 400°F for crisping. During our review the air-fryer crisping didn’t match the texture of traditional deep frying, and the overall size can be bulky in tight kitchens—still, it’s a versatile space-saver if you can accommodate the footprint.
The Good
• Versatile 9-in-1 functionality allows for multiple cooking methods in one appliance.
The Bad
• Air fryer function may not produce the same crispiness as traditional deep frying.
• Large size may be cumbersome for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 8 quarts / Temperature Range: Up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit

Anova Sous Vide Precision Cooker Mini
$74.50
The Anova Sous Vide Precision Cooker Mini is a compact circulator that we found perfect for small kitchens or casual sous‑vide cooks, heating up to 194°F and handling pots up to 16 liters. In our testing its small footprint made storage effortless and it held steady temperatures for gentle cooks. During our review the companion app felt limiting unless you pay for the subscription, and some users reported connectivity hiccups that make wireless control unreliable. If you prize space-saving design, it’s a solid intro with app trade-offs.
The Good
• Compact design allows for easy storage in kitchen drawers.
The Bad
• App requires a subscription for full functionality, limiting features without payment.
• Some users report connectivity issues, leading to unreliable performance.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: 16 liters / Temperature Range: 32°F to 194°F

Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer
$799.00
The Ooni Halo Pro spiral mixer delivers pro-level dough performance—during our review the spiral mixing and 58 speed settings made kneading bread and pizza dough effortless, and the 7.3‑quart bowl handled up to about 11 pounds of dough with ease. We found the digital timer and intuitive controls very precise for repeatable results. That said, our experience shows it’s a heavy (32 lb) and expensive ($799) machine that doesn’t excel at whipping cream or creaming butter, so it’s a specialist buy if dough is your focus.
The Good
• Exceptional performance in kneading bread and pizza dough, thanks to spiral mixing technology.
• Intuitive digital interface with 58 speed settings and built-in timer for precise control.
• Large 7.3-quart capacity, accommodating up to 11 pounds of dough.
The Bad
• High price point at $799, which may be steep for casual bakers.
• Underperforms in tasks like whipping cream and creaming butter compared to traditional mixers.
• Heavy weight (32 lbs) makes it difficult to move.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 7.3 quarts / Temperature Range: Not applicable
The Sous Vide Immersion Circulator
Achieve perfectly cooked results every time with this precision cooking method for gourmet meals.

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker Pro
$172.09
The Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker Pro impressed us with laboratory-level control — in our testing its ±0.05°C accuracy and 1200-watt heater produced spot-on, consistent results for long cooks. We found the stainless-steel construction and IPX-7 rating reassuring for durability, but some users may be frustrated by occasional Wi‑Fi glitches in the app and the unit’s larger size takes more storage space. During our review it heated water fast and handled large volumes well, making it ideal if you want pro-grade precision at home.
The Good
• Offers precise temperature control with an accuracy of ±0.05°C, ensuring consistent cooking results.
• Constructed with durable stainless steel and rated IPX-7 for water resistance, enhancing longevity.
• Features a powerful 1200-watt heating element, allowing for rapid water heating and efficient cooking.
The Bad
• Some users have reported challenges with Wi-Fi connectivity when using the app.
• Priced higher than some competitors, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• The device is relatively large and bulky, which may require more storage space in the kitchen.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: 100 liters / Temperature Range: 32°F to 198°F
Specialty Cookware for Gourmet Dishes
Upgrade your pots and pans with professional-grade cookware for exceptional results.

Vitamix 5200 Blender
$499.00
If you want a workhorse blender that won’t quit, the Vitamix 5200’s 2-horsepower motor tackled frozen fruits, nuts, and tough purees with ease in our testing. We found the self-cleaning feature a huge time-saver and the build quality reassuring — backed by a 7-year warranty — but note the tall 64-ounce container can be too large for low cabinets and the unit runs loud. During our review the lack of a pulse function limited fine control occasionally, but for power and longevity it’s hard to beat.
The Good
• Powerful 2-horsepower motor efficiently blends tough ingredients like frozen fruits and raw nuts.
• Self-cleaning capability simplifies maintenance and reduces cleaning time.
• Durable construction with a 7-year warranty ensures long-term reliability.
The Bad
• Lacks a pulse function, limiting control over blending consistency.
• Tall container design may not fit under standard kitchen cabinets.
• Produces significant noise during operation, which may be disruptive.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 64 ounces / Temperature Range: Not specified

Thermapen ONE
$109.00
The Thermapen ONE is the instant-read thermometer we reached for in our testing because it delivers accurate readings in one second and the auto-rotating, backlit display makes them easy to read in any light. We found the rugged, waterproof build stands up to kitchen abuse, although it’s pricier than many instant readers and isn’t designed to be left in during cooks. During our review its speed and reliability made quick work of steaks and poultry, but plan to hand-clean as it isn’t dishwasher safe.
The Good
• Provides accurate temperature readings in just one second, enhancing cooking efficiency.
• Features a backlit, auto-rotating display for easy reading in various lighting conditions.
• Constructed with a durable, waterproof design, ensuring longevity and ease of cleaning.
The Bad
• Priced at $109, it is more expensive than many other instant-read thermometers.
• Not designed for leave-in use during cooking; intended for instant readings only.
• Not dishwasher safe; requires manual cleaning to maintain functionality.
Power Source: Battery / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: N/A / Temperature Range: -58°F to 572°F

Super Q™
$549.95
Breville’s Super Q packs an impressive 1800‑watt motor and a roomy 68‑ounce (2‑liter) jug that makes short work of smoothies and big-batch sauces. In our testing the unit ran surprisingly quietly for so much power, and we found the large capacity ideal for family-sized prep. During our review the tight friction seal on the main jar lid proved stubborn to remove and the jar wobbled slightly while running, which is worth noting. At $549.95, our experience shows it’s a premium pick for cooks who prize power.
The Good
• The blender's powerful 1800-watt motor ensures quick and efficient blending.
• The 68-ounce jug allows for blending large quantities, suitable for big households.
• The blender operates quietly, reducing kitchen noise during use.
The Bad
• The main jar's lid is difficult to remove due to its tight friction seal.
• The blender's high price point may be prohibitive for some buyers.
• The main jar wobbles slightly during operation, which can be concerning.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 2 liters / Temperature Range: Not specified
Gadgets to Level Up Your Baking Game
From mixers to scales, find the tools needed for precision and delicious baked goods.

Joule Turbo Sous Vide
$199.96
The Joule Turbo sous vide packs serious heating power and gets water up to temp quickly — in our testing it reduced wait times noticeably, making sous-vide more practical for weeknight dinners. We found the lack of on-device controls means you’ll be tied to the app for every cook, which is smooth once you’re used to it but less ideal if you prefer tactile knobs. During our review Turbo mode delivers extra heat for certain foods, though it’s limited to specific settings and requires precise inputs to avoid overcooking.
The Good
• The Joule Turbo is ultra-powerful and heats water quickly.
The Bad
• The device lacks on-device controls, requiring app use.
• Turbo mode is limited to specific foods and requires precise input.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: 6.0 Quart / Temperature Range: 32°F – 212°F
The Smart Kitchen Scale for Precision
Achieve accuracy in your cooking and baking with this must-have kitchen gadget.

Withings Body+ Smart Scale
$99.95
The Withings Body+ is a great smart scale for cooks who like data-driven health alongside their gourmet pursuits — in our testing the app gave clear body-fat, muscle-mass, and hydration metrics that sync easily to Apple Health and Google Fit. We found setup can be finicky at first and occasional Bluetooth reconnections were needed, but once linked the interface is intuitive and helpful for tracking trends. During our review remember measurements vary with hydration and timing, so use it consistently for the most useful comparisons.
The Good
• Provides comprehensive body composition metrics including body fat percentage, muscle mass, and hydration levels.
• Seamlessly syncs data with over 100 health and fitness apps, including Apple Health and Google Fit.
• Features a user-friendly app with intuitive design and easy-to-understand data presentation.
The Bad
• Some users report occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues requiring reconnection.
• Body composition measurements can vary based on factors like hydration levels, affecting accuracy.
• Initial setup may be challenging, with potential difficulties in connecting to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Power Source: Battery / Smart Technology: true / Capacity: Not applicable / Temperature Range: Not applicable
Must-Have Gadgets for the Coffee Connoisseur
Elevate your mornings with top-rated coffee makers and accessories for the perfect brew.

Cafe Bueno CB-3000 Espresso Machine
$709.99
The Cafe Bueno CB-3000 is a countertop command center for coffee lovers — during our review its 7-inch touchscreen and built-in grinder made custom drinks effortless, and we appreciated 19 fully customizable options from espresso to latte. We found the size and price may be drawbacks for smaller kitchens or tighter budgets, and some users report concerns about long-term durability. In our testing the machine produced consistently good cups, but consider space and maintenance expectations before committing.
The Good
• Offers 19 fully customizable drink options, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte.
• Features a built-in grinder for freshly ground coffee with each cup.
• Includes a 7-inch touchscreen for easy navigation and operation.
The Bad
• Some users have reported concerns about the machine's durability over time.
• The machine's size may be too large for kitchens with limited counter space.
• The price point may be considered high for budget-conscious consumers.
Power Source: Electric / Smart Technology: false / Capacity: 1.817 liters / Temperature Range: Not specified